The Shelby County Public Library Foundation, Inc. was formed in 1986 to help accelerate library services in Shelby County by providing funding for library items beyond the reach of the operating budget. The Foundation’s funds are directed to three priority areas at the Shelby County Public Library: building/ renovation, special projects/initiatives and equipment.

Major foundation expenditures in the past five years have included: property purchased for an annex of the library ($75,000 - 2007), elevator repairs ($22,000 -2009), and renovation at the Carnegie East Wing ($20,000-2011).

If you would like to contribute to the Shelby County Public Library Foundation, please make checks payable to the "Shelby County Public Library Foundation." Donations can be left at the front desk of the library or mailed to the following address: